Bust Your Stress

Excerpt from TeenVoices.com

You're probably always going to run into people, places, and things that make your stomach clench and your shoulders tense. But there are ways to lessen stress and anxiety, both in the moment you feel it and over the long haul. Try these tips.

• The "fight or flight" response sometimes kicks in at times when you don't need it, leaving you with feelings of stress and anxiety. If this happens, try fighting it with breath. Close your eyes. Breathe slowly through your nose, and let your stomach swell up with air. Then breathe out through your mouth. This sure-fire way to calm down activates the relaxation response.
• Have you ever tried quieting your mind? Pick a time each day to chill out by yourself, sit or lie down, close your eyes. Your head will clear and you will probably — for a few minutes anyway — forget about your worries (this is another way of bringing on the relaxation response).
• Learn to say "No!" Try not to over-schedule yourself with unnecessary tasks that can stress you out. It is OK not to go out with your friends if you have an important test or homework, or if you're just too tired.
• If you prefer to sweat out your stress, try a cardiovascular exercise like Tae Kwon Do, or anything that makes you feel good.

When should you seek help?

It's always a good thing to seek out support when you're having a hard time. If you are feeling stressed, support from family & friends can go a long way toward helping you feel better. But if your stress continues, or it seems to be turning into anxiety, or you are having panic attacks, it's a good idea to seek professional help. A therapist can help you develop strategies to control your stress and anxiety. A doctor or therapist can help you make lifestyle changes — such as changing your diet, cutting out caffeine, and making an exercise plan — that may help you feel better.